WaterFirst
Recognizing local governments for achieving excellence in water resources management
Becoming a WaterFirst Community demonstrates a local government's commitment to responsible water stewardship for environmental and economic benefits. Communities that earn the WaterFirst designation are eligible for financial and other benefits from the state of Georgia.
WaterFirst benefits include:
- Statewide recognition for environmental stewardship
- 1 percent interest rate reduction on GEFA loans
- Annual eligibility for water-related project applications to the Community Development Block Grant Program through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs
- Priority status for the 319(h) Grant Program administered by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division.
A community must pass an onsite review to receive the WaterFirst designation. Readiness for the onsite review is determined through the WaterFirst application process and a water resources management audit.
WaterFirst Workshop 2022
Attendees heard from designated WaterFirst Communities and GEFA staff members about the program and discussed water, wastewater, and stormwater funding options.
WaterFirst Webinars
The webinar series is for Georgia communities interested in pursuing the WaterFirst designation.
WaterFirst Webinar: Lessons Learned
Designated WaterFirst Communities spoke about the WaterFirst application and on-site review process. Each speaker shared lessons learned, challenges, and how they overcame hurdles. Click here to watch.
